Halogen modified lithium-manganese (Li-Mn) spinel materials are good candidates for use as cathodes in rechargeable lithium electrochemical systems

The US Army RDECOM seeks a partner to license and commercialize a facile synthesis route to a family of halogen modified lithium-manganese (Li-Mn) spinel materials suitable for use as cathodes in rechargeable lithium electrochemical systems

By introducing halogens into the starting material mixture and subsequently into the final product, the synthesis process time of lithium manganese-based spinel materials was reduced by at least an order of magnitude – from ~ 50 hours to less than 4 hours. In addition, the preparation is performed at relatively low temperatures, affording better control and high yield rates by minimizing temperature gradients within the mixture during processing. This synthesis method uses commonly available chemicals, is conducted in an open atmosphere, and is compatible with existing cathode manufacturing practices.

Tested as cathodes, these materials have shown to be very robust against over and under voltage compared to conventional Li-Mn spinel, leading to improved cycle life; other cathode performance characteristics are not compromised by the addition of halogens.

Benefits

Fast and easy process: Spinel formation is reduced from ~ 50 hours to less than 4 hours and synthesis is carried out in an open atmosphere

Better yield: The calcination temperature using this inventive method is about 600oC compared to 800oC for previous solid state synthesis – resulting in reduced temperature gradients and better control of the process

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Brian Metzger, PhD, CLP

Brian Metzger, PhD, CLP

Brian joined TechLink in 2014, bringing over 18 years of Silicon Valley industry experience in new product development with tech companies, LSI Logic and Applied Materials. He has a doctorate in physical chemistry, and specializes in licensing technologies involving advanced materials, photonics and sensors, and electronics. He is an integral member of the Innovation Discovery Process, helping to host events at DoD labs across the country. Brian is a renaissance man with wide-ranging interests in seemingly unconnected things: ecommerce, sports, psychology, entrepreneurship, creativity, spirituality, fitness, and philanthropy.